Sir Michael Hill purchased a run-down deer farm in Arrowtown, just out of Queenstown in the 1990’s. Having caught the golf bug some years prior he decided to build two holes which started and returned to his home in the North-West corner of the property. In time, two holes became nine, and before long what started as an elaborate practice area had turned into a fully-fledged 18 hole design, complete with a clubhouse designed by renowned New Zealand architect Andrew Paterson. The club would become host to several major events, including the New Zealand Open, and would also become known for the wonderful art installations which are scattered across the layout.
The site is absolutely stunning with terrific undulation, exposed rocky outcroppings and views of snow capped mountains in every direction, including renowned peaks referred to as ‘The Remarkables’. In fact, it may be the most beautiful and dramatic site we’ve ever seen away from the ocean.
Whilst the course is very good, the design doesn’t quite match the magnificence of the landscape, and in 2023 we were approached to redesign the layout. Working closely with the Hill Family and Tara Iti / Te Arai founders Rick Kayne and Jim Rohrstaff, we are currently in the design phase of the project. Construction is scheduled to commence in April 2026.
Project
The Hills
Location
New Zealand
Details
New 18 hole golf course
